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Diverse cultures, turbulent history and breathtaking hidden gems: welcome to the Balkan Peninsula, often referred to as the Balkans. Since you all know about Greece and Turkey (yes, parts of Greece and Turkey are actually in the Balkan Peninsula), as someone who was born here and who has spent their entire life here, I will reveal to you hidden gems that should also be on your Balkan travel list.
The Balkans are in Europe (near Italy) and include Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Bulgaria, Romania and others. By the way, did you know that the Balkan countries—Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, Kosovo, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia—were all part of the former Yugoslavia?
Anyway, whether you’re walking the charming streets of Dubrovnik, swimming in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, or hiking through Montenegro’s lush forests, the Balkan Peninsula is full of hidden gems that promise an amazing vacation.
But first…
Why Visit the Balkans?
Balkan Countries are Affordable
Okay, with inflation, we all started paying more attention to money and the Balkan countries are more affordable than many well-known European or world destinations. Of course, don’t expect it to be cheap (because it won’t be), but you won’t have to empty your wallet either (unless you want to).
If something is too expensive, it is usually enough to walk a few streets away from the center where food, coffee and accommodation become more affordable.
Europe’s Hidden Gems and Must-Visit Destinations
The Balkan countries are rich in natural beauty. There is beautiful Croatian Dubrovnik, magical Bosnia and Herzegovina, luxurious Budva, amazing Lake Bled and more.
The destinations are usually not overhyped, and you can find anything: luxurious night outs, untouched nature, the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, mountain peaks and hidden gems that your colleagues and friends haven’t discovered yet. Cool, right?
The Balkan Countries Have a Long History and a Diverse Culture
Ottoman influence awaits you in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania. Venetian influence in Croatia and Montenegro. Roman influence in Macedonia. Byzantine influence in Serbia, Bulgaria, and parts of Greece. Habsburg influence in Slovenia… you get the idea.
The Balkans have a long history and a diverse culture, which make architecture, food and tradition unique and rich.
The Balkans Have a Soul
Here in the Balkans, we may not have the most impressive skyscrapers you’ve ever seen and we may not have the highest salaries (that one is for sure), but the Balkans have a “soul.”
Nobody is in a rush here. The standard isn’t particularly great, but the tables are always full of delicious food, and there is always time to drink coffee—for hours. How? Come to the Balkans and find out.
Croatia: The Jewel of the Adriatic
Ok, I’m from Croatia, but I really do think Croatia is the best of these options. Croatia has it all: the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea and beautiful coast; it is completely safe; it offers variety (islands, lowlands, mountains, nature parks, forests); and it is rich in natural beauty.
Also, it is very small and if you rent a car, you can see a lot.
In my opinion, the best we can offer you is stunning Dubrovnik and its surroundings (you know, the Game of Thrones city). Its magnificent walls in the old town, amazing architecture (which looks so powerful) and the incredible scenery really impressed me. I am sure that you will also not remain indifferent.
If you visit Dubrovnik, I recommend taking a boat day trip to the island of Lopud. I was there two months ago, and what a wonderful escape to unspoiled nature, fresh sea air and the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea.
Of course, I have to mention a day trip to the Plitvice Lakes (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and their cascading waterfalls, as well as charming Istria with Italian vibes. It would be a shame not to mention Split and spending hours drinking coffee with a view of Diocletian’s Palace or the Adriatic Sea. If you can’t drink coffee for hours, just ignore it; perhaps it’s just us from Balkan countries.
And if you are looking for luxury and nightlife, don’t hesitate to visit the island of Hvar, home to the world’s most luxurious yachts throughout the summer. Not bad, huh?
There are also many other stunning places to discover, like Korčula, Mljet, Zadar Kornati and Pag.
If you don’t visit Croatia in summer (which, let’s be honest, is the best time to visit it), come to our capital city, Zagreb and experience Advent in Zagreb. It has been named the best Advent in Europe three years in a row.
Ah, I just love Croatia.
Montenegro: Where Mountains Meet the Sea
In my opinion, the second-best summer destination on this list is Montenegro. Montenegro is somewhat comparable to Croatia. You will be warmly welcomed and you will feel very safe. And here is a bonus for all the single ladies: Montenegrin guys are known for their irresistible charm.
There is also a stereotype that Montenegrins are lazy, which is why we in the Balkans make wonderful jokes about it, but I would say that Montenegrins simply enjoy life and are quite relaxed. I mean, what’s the rush?
Anyway, if you visit Montenegro, swim in the Adriatic Sea, take a day trip to the Bay of Kotor (which I have already written about), and explore the beautiful Durmitor National Park.
If you enjoy luxury, visit the popular island of Sveti Stefan and discover why Sophia Loren, Kirk Douglas, Claudia Schiffer, Elizabeth Taylor, the Bechkams and others were so impressed. Of course, visit the famous Budva and have a coffee in the capital city of Podgorica.
Good food, charming hosts and the Adriatic Sea to cool you off from the summer heat—what else does a person need for a summer vacation?
Slovenia: The Green Heart of Europe
Third on my list is the small but beautiful country of Slovenia, a place of extensive natural beauty. It is nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean. If you rent a car, you can see it all. It is clean and safe, with a higher standard than the other countries on this top 5 list, but… it only has 45 kilometers of coastline.
Of course, luckily for them, they are neighbors with Croatia, so all Slovenians spend their summers here in Croatia, most often in our Istria (due to its proximity). Therefore, it is obvious that you should as well.
If you are planning a summer vacation, I suggest Slovenia as a day trip and combining it with, for example, Croatia or Montenegro, where you can enjoy the Adriatic Sea.
And what exactly is so beautiful about Slovenia?
Enjoy Lake Bled’s fairytale setting, get a coffee in charming Ljubljana (the capital city) and admire nature at Triglav National Park.
We love sLOVEnia!
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Where History Lives and Nature Thrives
Located on the western Balkan Peninsula, Bosnia and Herzegovina is somewhat similar to Slovenia (but cheaper, with a lower standard and not so touristic).
That means you will feel safe, and you will enjoy a lot of natural beauty. But, if you visit in the summer and want to swim in the Adriatic Sea, you should combine it with Croatia or Montenegro.
From the architectural marvels of Sarajevo to the tranquil charm of Mostar’s old town, a visit to Bosnia & Herzegovina is a journey through history, and hidden gems, such as the Kravica waterfalls or Vrelo Bune.
Enjoy the warmth of Bosnian hospitality, go rafting on the wild river Una and enjoy its beautiful waterfalls, sample traditional Bosnian cuisine (you must try famous ćevapčići), and let the mountains and waterfalls captivate your soul (and phone memory, of course).
Bosnia & Herzegovina is really a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
North Macedonia: A Melting Pot of Civilizations
North Macedonia is also beautiful. However, it has a lower standard than, for example, Croatia and has one disadvantage: no access to the Adriatic Sea.
Although tourism is growing here, in my opinion, North Macedonia should focus more on infrastructure, transportation connections and tourist facilities. That’s why North Macedonia ranks fifth on this list.
North Macedonia is full of flavors, traditions, history, and beauty, from Skopje’s bustling bazaars to the serene shores of beautiful Lake Ohrid and its famous orthodox church.
Wander through cobblestone streets, admire Skopje’s cultural mix, explore ancient ruins, eat traditional dishes with Balkan-inspired flavors at local markets, and dance to the lively rhythms of Macedonian folk music.
North Macedonia surely deserves a chance.
Embarking on a Balkan Journey: Why These Countries Should Be on Your Radar
The Balkans will certainly not leave you indifferent. It is teeming with diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, traditional flavors, warm people and a fascinating history.
Aside from these five countries, you can visit Greece (and enjoy Greek cuisine and the capital Athens), the vibrant cities of Serbia (such as Serbian Belgrade and its Temple of St. Sava, or Novi Sad), Kosovo (and its Pristina), and the rich culture of Turkey (and its stunning Istanbul).
You can also visit the increasingly popular Albania (and its Tirana, Albanian Riviera, and Berat), which have earned the nickname of the Maldives’ cheaper alternative (although I think that Albania is not as appropriately developed, safe, and prepared for tourists as the five countries that I mentioned).
So, if you decide to visit one of these five countries, explore its hidden gems, enjoy the warm hospitality, dance to the rhythms of traditional music, and witness the confluence of East and West in every corner.
Anyway, the Balkans promise a journey full of surprises and amazing experiences. In a good way, I hope. Just kidding, you will love it.
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Katarina Marjanović is a travel writer at Go World Travel Magazine. She studied Croatian language and literature at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Science in Zagreb. She is a freelance columnist, writer, influencer, and content creator. Additionally, she is the author of three books and the owner of a publishing and service company.
